EFL call for supporters to join standing debate

30 April 2018

The EFL and FSF (Football Supporters' Association) have launched a joint campaign, calling on supporters to debate the issue of licensed standing in stadiums.

The campaign, called 'Stand up for Choice,' was launched last Friday, and will aim to provoke a progressive and informed debate, whilst highlighting the support that exists among football fans who wish to have a choice between sitting and standing at matches.

The EFL will gather information via a dedicated fans' survey, which will provide them with key data and insight on the support for dedicated standing areas.

"The safety of all fans is of paramount importance to everyone, including Government, and they are rightly concerned about any change that could increase the safety risk and then see them accountable for this.

"We recognise that to effect change we will need a partnership approach and this will commence with our survey to demonstrate that those who attend fixtures, want to see the change and be offered a choice, even if they still choose to be seated."

The survey aims to give fans a collective voice on the issue, and closes on Thursday 10 May.

The EFL has had a clear mandate from clubs since 2014, and is keen on having an active dialogue with supporters over this widely debated issue, to give fans the matchday experience they want.

"The EFL would like to see current legislation reviewed by the Government and ultimately amended so that clubs have the opportunity to provide standing accommodation to their supporters at all matches played in the Championship, League One and League Two, should they wish to," added Harvey.

"By surveying fans, we will be in a position to provide Government with a clear indication of the strength of feeling amongst those supporters who attend EFL matches every season.

"I urge all supporters of EFL Clubs to respond to the ‘Stand up for Choice’ campaign, to make your voice heard at this time and to demonstrate that having the choice of whether to stand or sit is what the majority of fans want."

The data from the survey will be collated and presented to the relevant Government and safety authorities to provide clear evidence to deliver an informed debate on this issue.